From My Perspective

I know you're aware that food tastes better outdoors. Nothing sparks the appetite like the smell of bacon frying in the early morning chill or hamburgers on the grill, or even coffee or iced tea served on the deck or front porch. There seems to be truth to the fresh air theory of a healthy appetite brought on by being outdoors. But this is only one of the advantages of communing with nature. One interesting and easy way for a family or friends to experience nature is to go day camping. Here’s how it works. Simply choose somewhere close by but far enough away to feel like you’ve actually traveled---not more than a one & half hour trip. Be sure that it is a place that will give you a sense of oneness with nature, such as a nature preserve, park, arboretum, bird sanctuary, or woods. Take along a picnic lunch (or breakfast if you’re an early bird), some extra snacks and drinks, a few folding chairs, and head for the hills…or woods to be more exact. Day camping can provide most of the benefits of overnight camping without a lot of the hassles and energy expenditure. And you generally don’t need to buy camping equipment. You can make it as simple or as elaborate as you want. Here are some tips that will help make it a day that will give positive memories: ---This part is optional: Non-perishables and emergency items can be put into gallon plastic zip bags or a camping box and be ready when the urge for fresh air and freedom hits. You might want to include in your day camping kit some or all of the following: paper plates/cups/plastic ware; napkins/wash-‘n-dry packets or a roll of paper towels; small pkgs. of ketchup/mustard, salt/pepper, etc.; straws; matches; first aid kit; suntan lotion & insect repellent; aluminum foil; small grill with instant light charcoal; perhaps a plastic tarp and a blanket that could be used for a nap or just cloud reading. ---Or, you need only add food to the cooler, and perhaps a few folding chairs. A loaded camera and binoculars can increase the fun. ---Make a separate tote bag of quiet activities for the kids. It might include items such as coloring books, word and guessing games, soap bubbles, a bird identification book, a magnifying glass, etc. ---Try setting out on your day camping trip with a theme in mind, such as exploring or appreciating nature, seeing how many different birds you can find, enjoying the peace and quiet, or simply having fun. Having a simple purpose or goal in mind can eliminate feelings of pressure from other demands. By giving yourself and the family permission to focus on one theme, you help eliminate unrealistic expectations and allow for increased enjoyment. ---Make up a list of possible “day camping” places to visit along with directions and map that fit within the maximum driving distance. This could be an interesting library research visit or auto club information visit. There are numerous possibilities in your area. The goal here is an emphasis on nature, not commercialism, so be creative. ---When you get there, consciously make yourself SLOW DOWN. No need to rush into activity. Simply breathe in the fresh air slowly, and try to become aware of the sounds and sights of nature. Ask the kids to listen and try to identify each of the nature sounds they hear or the movements they see. Just as anxiety and tension can be contagious, so can calmness. So, try simply acting calm. Watch what can gradually happen around you. You might be surprised. ---“Take a hike” or a walk in the woods, that is. Try making it a slow walk that gives time for becoming aware of previously unnoticed things like animal tracks, new plant growth, bird nests, chipmunk antics, unusual flowers, sunlight images, bird calls, …and peace. Day camping can be a great way to increase the quality of your family life and is a wonderful alternative to commercial recreation activities. Just remember to “take only memories away with you and leave only footprints”.